Personality profile: Meet Melissa Long

Name: Melissa (Grafe) Long

Education: 2001 graduate of Kent State University, with a bachelor’s degree in Comprehensive Social Studies Education for grades 7-12; 2007 graduate of Walden University, with a master’s degree in Curriculum, Instruction and Design.

Times Reporter

Writer

Posted Mar. 11, 2013 at 12:01 AM
Updated Mar 11, 2013 at 11:11 AM

Posted Mar. 11, 2013 at 12:01 AM
Updated Mar 11, 2013 at 11:11 AM

Name: Melissa (Grafe) Long

Education: 2001 graduate of Kent State University, with a bachelor’s degree in Comprehensive Social Studies Education for grades 7-12; 2007 graduate of Walden University, with a master’s degree in Curriculum, Instruction and Design.

What is your occupation? I am the Teaching Professions program instructor for Buckeye Career Center in New Philadelphia. I work with high school seniors who are exploring a career as a teacher. My program offers three college credits for Intro Education, and allows students to work in local classrooms to gain a comprehensive look into the profession. Students complete six-week rotations at the elementary level, the middle-school level, and within special-education classrooms. Lecture-style seminars in the program are conducted in the Science and Advanced Technology Center at Kent State University at Tuscarawas in New Philadelphia.

What type of student do you usually get in the Teaching Professions program? Students who are serious about exploring the field of education! They either stay at their home schools for their academics, come to Buckeye to complete them, or take advantage of the postsecondary option at Kent State-Tuscarawas. They inspire me to be my very best each day. They express such a passion for helping others, and that is so exciting to witness! They are often very active in extracurricular activities, work part-time jobs and participate in various organizations outside of school. I often hear people complain about the young people of today, so it is refreshing to be surrounded by such exemplary students each day.

Who inspired you to become a teacher? I’ve been blessed with some amazing teachers. At Claymont’s Eastport Elementary School in Uhrichsville, I had some of the most caring, compassionate, and loving teachers that existed. Ultimately, they were the driving force behind my decision to become a teacher. One teacher in particular, Mrs. Sue Huff, really believed in me and encouraged me along my journey. I was a very shy little girl, and she really helped build my self-esteem and helped me realize my full potential.

How do you balance your professional life and your personal life? I’ve been married to Scott for 13 years, and we have three children: Chloe, age 10, Carson, 6, and Cuyler, 2. We live in New Philadelphia. Our children keep us very busy, as the oldest are in sports, 4-H, and other activities. I have always wanted to be the kind of teacher that I would want my children to have. Although it has often been difficult leaving them to go to work, I feel blessed to be able to make a difference in the lives of young people. Teenagers need people to care about them and to be a positive role model in their lives; this is something that I strive to achieve each day. As crazy and hectic as my life is, I wouldn’t change it for the world.

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What do you do in your spare time? I love spending time with my family and friends. I have two very special siblings: Tommy (Brooke) Grafe, and Amber (Chad) Ohler. We try to get together as often as possible. It is nice to reminisce and laugh the night away. I have three beautiful nieces: Macey Ohler, Lauren Grafe and Peyton Grafe. They have always been special to “Aunt MiMi.” I enjoy watching them grow and participate in their school activities.

Whom do you go to for advice or inspiration? My parents, Tom and Nancy Grafe, have always been there for me. Even as an adult, I can call and talk about any problem. My mom is such a strong person, and I truly value her friendship and guidance. I feel blessed to have such an incredible support system. I also have loving grandparents, who have always been there to offer support and advice along the way. There is never a day that goes by that I don’t talk to God and thank Him for His guidance and blessings. He is my main source of inspiration and strength.

What is your dream job? My current job as the Teaching Professions Program instructor is my dream job! I get to witness young people making a difference in the lives of the children they come into contact with each day. I love my job and the wonderful people I get the opportunity to work with at Buckeye Career Center. It is truly a special place to work.